Zajac Believes in the Team, Wants Gold from Poprad

The squad, led by coach Michal Salajka, prepared in several blocks, with the final one taking place in Vranov nad Topľou. “I have a really good feeling about it. We’re a tight group and we’re well coordinated. Things are working off the rink as well – we know how to have fun and support each other,” said the talented forward.

The U20 selection wasn’t formed easily; several players withdrew from the team, but a preparatory match against the U23 team showed that even this group has great potential and solid strengths. “In that match, we were even better at times and showed that we can play ball hockey against older guys,” added Zajac.

The young forward also engaged in individual training before the start of the World Championship because he didn’t want to leave anything to chance. “There will be a lot of running in Poprad, so it was important to build up even more fitness.”

Many goaltenders have already experienced Zajac’s qualities, and he’s shown his talent even in the senior league. “In the U20 league, I was given more space, probably the most used player, and I liked playing on the power play. So I expect there’ll be some pressure on me. But I’m not overthinking it — it’s nothing too overwhelming.”

Two years ago, the U20 team lost in the final to Canada. This time, they want to make things right on home soil. “It’s a home championship in Poprad, in a beautiful setting. I hope a lot of people come. We’re going for gold — we didn’t manage to win it in any category two years ago, so I hope this year we’ll get it,” Zajac concluded.

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Photo: Beata Tokošová